Kampala, Uganda – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Cooperation) Hon. Oryem Henry Okello, met with a United States delegation led by Ms. Sarah Troutman, Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for African Affairs, who was accompanied by US Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William W. Popp, for high-level discussions focused on commercial diplomacy and expanding U.S.–Uganda economic cooperation.
The meeting underscored Uganda’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading investment destination in East and Central Africa. Hon. Oryem emphasised that Uganda offers political stability, an investor-friendly regulatory framework, and one of the region’s most liberal profit repatriation policies. Investors are permitted to repatriate 100 percent of their profits, and the Ugandan shilling remains relatively stable and freely convertible.
A major focus of the discussions was Uganda’s emerging oil and gas sector. With first oil production expected soon, significant opportunities exist not only in extraction but also in refinery development, engineering services, logistics, and auxiliary industries. The Minister encouraged greater participation from American companies, noting the United States’ global expertise in energy development and related technologies.
Beyond oil and gas, Uganda presented opportunities in critical minerals, infrastructure development, aviation, rail transport, and telecommunications. The expansion of Uganda Airlines, the development of road and rail networks linking regional markets, and improvements in internet connectivity were highlighted as priority areas aligned with Uganda’s National Development Plan.
Tourism was also identified as a high-potential sector. Uganda’s natural attractions, favorable climate, and agricultural abundance offer strong prospects for increased American tourism and hospitality investment, particularly with improved connectivity and targeted promotion.
DAS Troutman reaffirmed that commercial engagement is an increasing priority in U.S. foreign policy toward Africa. She noted that American companies bring high operational standards, transparency, and skills transfer that support sustainable development and job creation. The U.S. delegation committed to raising awareness among American businesses about Uganda’s investment opportunities and strengthening follow-up mechanisms through the U.S. Embassy’s commercial team.
While the primary focus of the meeting was trade and investment, both sides acknowledged that economic growth remains closely linked to regional stability. The Minister outlined ongoing security challenges in parts of East and Central Africa, including eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, noting that instability and illicit mineral exploitation continue to affect development. He reaffirmed Uganda’s constructive role in regional peace efforts and its open-door refugee policy.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen commercial ties, broaden private sector engagement, and translate diplomatic dialogue into measurable investment outcomes. Uganda reaffirmed that it remains open, competitive, and ready for enhanced partnership with the United States.
Photo Credit: Fahad Mugga
